BROADCASTS.com

Many a blog entry has been written in complaint about the difficulties of working in space with the U.S., or about the hurdles U.S. aerospace companies face in dealing with partners abroad. As is often the case, these difficulties come from good intentions, and revolve around a valid need -- for regulations on export of sensitive technologies. The crux of things is a set of U.S. State Department regulations known as ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), a 4-letter word in many circles (particularly for small companies attempting to re-invent access to space). In this week's episode, I summarize the recent history of U.S. export control regulations, and give a brief overview of just what ITAR compliance entails. \n\nWhen you're done listening, you may not be any happier about the situation, but you'll at least have a good feel for what the current situation is.